Once seat belts have been tested and found to comply with homologation standards, the manufacturer can install them in vehicles and obtain approval for sale from the competent authorities. It is important to note that seat belts must be used correctly to ensure maximum protection, so car manufacturers often provide detailed instructions on the proper use of the belts.
Laboratory test:
The tests for safety belt approval are designed to evaluate the ability of the belts to protect vehicle occupants in the event of an accident. These tests are rigorous and are carried out in controlled environments using test dummies and highly sophisticated measuring tools.
Tensile strength test: This test is performed by applying a tensile force to the safety belts through a mechanical testing device. The force is gradually increased until the belts either yield or break. The result of the test is the maximum force that the belts can withstand without yielding or breaking.
Load resistance test: This test is performed by applying a static load to the safety belts and measuring the amount of deformation they undergo. The load is applied for a predetermined period of time and then removed to evaluate the ability of the belts to regain their original shape.
Crash simulation: These tests replicate the conditions of a car accident. In these tests, the safety belts are tested in combination with the vehicle’s airbag systems, using test dummies that simulate vehicle occupants. Crash simulation tests can evaluate the ability of the belts to keep vehicle occupants in place during an accident, reducing the risk of injury or death.
Wear resistance: Evaluation of the ability of safety belts to withstand wear and aging. The belts are subjected to repeated cycles of tension and release for a certain period of time to simulate the wear they may undergo over time. The wear resistance test is important because safety belts must maintain their integrity and functionality throughout the life of the vehicle.
Moisture and temperature resistance: The ability of safety belts to function in different environmental conditions, such as high humidity or extreme temperatures. The belts are exposed to these conditions for a certain period of time and then evaluated to determine if their functionality has been compromised.
Incompatibility with other safety systems test: This test evaluates whether safety belts are compatible with other vehicle safety systems, such as child car seats or pet restraint systems. The belts are tested in combination with these systems to determine if any conflicts or interferences occur.
Vibration resistance: The ability of safety belts to withstand the vehicle’s vibrations during driving. The belts are subjected to repeated vibrations for a certain period of time and then evaluated to determine if their functionality has been compromised.
